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Stem Cells in the Nervous System – Can They Repair Damaged Neurons?

Everyone’s brain is slightly different both in terms of structural and functional connectivity. Neurons are the principal cells of the brain that permit integration and transmission of critical information between various regions of the brain. Neurons are very susceptible to damage and neurons have very limited ability to repair themselves after damage. This forms the basis of certain brain conditions called neuro-degenerative diseases. Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease are examples of neuro-degenerative diseases. Researchers are now exploring ways of restoring function that is lost due to the degeneration of neurons. This strategy involves stem cells.

From Berkeley: Example of lineage-traced cells in the regenerating olfactory epithelium, including sustentacular (support) cells, neurons, and stem cells.

Stem cells are the most basic cells that have the potential to differentiate into any type of mature cell. Hence stem cells could differentiate into skin cells, blood cells, neurons, or even hair. Since stem cells can become any type of cell, it is worthwhile to determine ways to direct stem cells towards neuronal differentiation. The goal is that such cells could regenerate the function of neurons in specific areas of the brain thereby treating symptoms associated with neuronal degeneration.

The researchers discuss the potential advantages and obstacles for using different types of stem cells, including embryonic (ESC), mesenchymal (MSC), induced pluripotent (iPSC), and neuronal (NSC) stem cells as therapeutic agents. They also present the evidence to support further study of compounds such as metformin and melatonin hybrids, and of natural antioxidants including resveratrol, curcumin, and acetyl-L-carnitine.

Many Institutions are now utilizing new research knowledge to explore the tremendous potential of stem cells. For example, the Mayo Clinic in Florida has a Neurogeneration Lab that is focused on diminishing and/or reducing neurodegenerative diseases. Here is an explanation by the research leader, Dr. Guojun Bu:

2 thoughts on “Stem Cells in the Nervous System – Can They Repair Damaged Neurons?”

Besides motor neurons’ destruction, ALS is also characterized by neural inflammation triggered by the accumulation of abnormal glial cells (nerve cells that support neurons), together with infiltration of immune cells.